Racial nationalism is an ideology that proposes defining national identity based on race. It is a political ideology that emphasises the necessity of preserving and strengthening a nation or state based on a particular race or ethnic identity. It maintains that the well-being, rights, and interests of a single racial or ethnic group should take precedence over the well-being, rights, and interests of others within the nation’s borders.
Racial nationalism strives to maintain a nation’s “racial purity” by policies such as prohibiting race mixing and the immigration of other races. It aims to establish and maintain a homogeneous society in which the dominant racial or ethnic group has special privileges and control over political, economic, and social institutions. In order to create a justification for such policies, racial nationalism often promotes eugenics, and advocates political and legislative solutions based on eugenic and other racial theories.
Racial nationalism should not be confused with ethnic nationalism. This ideology frequently opposes multiculturalism and argues for stringent immigration rules to preserve the perceived purity and homogeneity of the dominant race or ethnic group. Völkisch nationalism is a transitional type between racial and ethnic nationalism.
It’s important to highlight that racial nationalism has a long history of being related with prejudice, racism, and xenophobia. Critics claim that it can lead to the marginalisation and oppression of minority groups, resulting to social division and conflict. Many countries and cultures have historically struggled with the ramifications of such beliefs, resulting in deep-seated conflicts and, in some cases, violence.
Racial nationalism, on the other hand, advocates claim that it is necessary for the preservation of a certain cultural legacy and identity, as well as the continuity of a particular way of life.
It is critical to distinguish between racial nationalism and civic nationalism, which is founded on common values, beliefs, and adherence to a set of political principles and institutions rather than ethnic or racial identity. Civic nationalism is more inclusive in general, and it can include people of many racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds who believe in the nation’s essential ideals and principles.
